Troops rescue two hostages in Benue

Thursday, April 16, 2026 - Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE have rescued two kidnapped victims following sustained intelligence driven crackdown on criminal elements operating within Kyado in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

The rescue operation which took place in the early hours of 15 April 2026 at approximately 03:50 a.m., led to the safe recovery of Mr Sylvester Micheal Ebuka and Mrs Chidinma Chikwentu.

The victims had earlier been abducted in separate incidents, with Mr Ebuka kidnapped on 2 April 2026 at about 06:50 a.m., while Mrs Chikwentu was taken on 6 April 2026 at approximately 05:13 p.m.

Acting Media Information Officer, HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, who disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, April 15, said the breakthrough was achieved through a combination of credible intelligence and relentless operational pressure mounted by troops on suspected bandit hideouts within the general area. 

“The troops conducted aggressive fighting patrols aimed at dislodging criminal elements and disrupting their activities," the statement read.

"This sustained offensive led to the recovery of the victims as their abductors fled. Both individuals were freed without sustaining physical injuries.

"The Force Commander Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty. 

"He noted that the successful rescue was a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and the determination of the troops to deny criminal elements freedom of action.

"Major General Gara further reassured residents of Benue State and its environs of the military’s resolve to sustain ongoing operations until all threats to peace and security are neutralized. 

“He urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, emphasizing that community cooperation remains vital in the fight against kidnapping and other forms of criminality.”